Appreciative Inquiry is gaining wide acceptance as a new resource for organizational development.  The emphasis is usually on the aspect of “appreciation” as a positive change model.  Appreciative Inquiry is indeed about looking at strengths in an organization instead of deficits. 

But in the conversational (dialogic) life of organizations, A.I. is also about  “inquiry”.  It is about taking the time to ask questions.  In some ways, it is in our experience, effective because it slows down the conversation.  It allows room for saying, “I want to know more”.

So let there be space between your statements!  It works in personal relationships as well as in organizational and institutional life.  Let there be time for listening.  Let there be time for silence!  A reflective answer shows depth and consideration.

In every arena of life, we like to know that we have been “listened to”.  What is your experience of having “felt heard” in a difficult situation?

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